Robin G. Says:
Is it better to ship my stuff to Italy or buy new when I get there?
IL Executive Editor Jennifer Stevens Says:
Hi Robin,
When moving to Italy, it’s good to keep in mind the old phrase—less is more!
Italian Customs Officers, Dogane, are very thorough. Every box and every item must be accounted for, listed, described, and can be taxed. Therefore, it’s wise to move only used, personal items—not new items or things that can be purchased in Italy.
The Italian Customs Authority is protective of their country’s economic well-being and wants you to purchase what you need in Italy. Ordinarily, much of what you need to buy is available at less expense in Italy than the cost of shipping and customs duty.
The customs information forms in Italian are time-consuming and detailed. But once the documents are complete, your shipped items are delivered intact and complete.
To ship a container can cost between $1,150 to $4,850, depending on the size (20ft. to 40ft.).
The average delivery time is three to four months from the date of shipping from the U.S. to the date of delivery to your location.
If you’re buying a home in Italy you should consider that, most of the time, it will come furnished. Italians seldom take their furnishings, leaving most essential items behind, but this is case-by-case. Always ask what will be available.
You can find more information that will help your move to Italy on the dedicated page of our website.